Democrats back suits against oil, gas industry

The Louisiana Democratic Party is supporting lawsuits demanding that 97 oil and gas companies pay for damages to the state's marshes that led to coastal wetlands loss and contributed to higher storm surges during hurricanes.

The New Orleans Advocate reports the 210-member Louisiana Democratic State Central Committee passed the resolution Saturday on a voice vote with one in opposition.

Party chairman state Sen. Karen Carter Peterson says the resolution is the position of the Democratic Party. She says members and elected officials will not be sanctioned if they take different positions.

Gov. Bobby Jindal strongly opposes the litigation filed last July by the Southeast Louisiana Flood Protection Authority-East. The lawsuit seeks damages for the extensive network of canals cut by energy companies through wetlands.

Coaches were more vocal and aggressive with players as training camp pushes ahead full steam. Players clashed with one another in several hard hits and tackles, indicating that ferocity was the name of the game.